Malware is a harmful program that infiltrates and damages your devices and networks without your knowledge. They can take various forms, such as legitimate files, hidden codes, and encrypted structures. Regardless of the form, you should definitely know how to remove malware from network.
The first thing to do is to locate the malware source. You should begin blocking all of the ports used by the infected malware once you have identified it. The next thing to do is scan all the computers on the network. Next, quarantine the infected files and safely delete them. Finally, check and update your network security protocols to eliminate malware.
In this article, we will give you a thorough guideline to safely remove any malware from the network. We will also discuss the common malware types and how they usually spread. Keep reading to get a secure network.
What is the Definition of Malware?
Malware stands for “malicious software.” It is any software that was made by cybercriminals (often called “hackers”) to loot data and damage or destroy computers and computer systems. Malware includes viruses, worms, Trojan horses, spyware, adware, and ransomware.
In many cases, malware gets into a system by being attached as a file or link to an email that needs to be clicked or downloaded. From there, the user unknowingly runs the malware, and as it gets into the network, it damages the system.
The type of malware will determine the harm and nature of disruptions to the device once it infiltrates a system or network.
Different Types of Malware
Strong antivirus and anti-malware software, as well as strong network security, are often the best defenses against malware. However, knowledge is also a good defense. It is possible to stop attacks from happening if you know the types and functions of malware. The common types are:
- Computer Viruses: Viruses modify computers, servers, and other files. When those files run, the virus does too. Quarantine and removal of the infected files are usually the only ways to eliminate a virus. Complex viruses may require a more in-depth approach from a professional.
- Worms: Most of the time, worms are sent through email. Once someone opens the infected email, they can attack the whole network. Furthermore, worms, unlike viruses, can cause harm when they are not inside a legitimate file. To get rid of this kind of malware as quickly as possible, you need strong antivirus software.
- Trojan Horse: This type of malware is probably the most common. It looks like a real program and does the most damage when the user is not paying attention. Malicious emails and websites can contain Trojan horses. They often look like antivirus programs; they get people to download something that will “get rid” of a virus.
- Ransomware: Ransomware locks users out of sensitive data and information after infecting a device or network. Cybercriminals who hold ransomware usually demand payment before releasing the data. Ransomware is often found in downloaded files. It requires an expert to remove it from a system and restore stolen data without a ransom.
- Spyware: Like ransomware, spyware does exactly what its name implies. This malware gathers user data, including keystrokes, by spying on them. Cybercriminals use spyware to change security settings to avoid detection. However, spyware is easier to remove but indicates network security vulnerabilities.
- Rootkit: In order to remotely access a computer without antivirus software noticing it, rootkits take advantage of security flaws. Cybercriminals with rootkits can access anything the computer can. Network security professionals usually remove rootkits manually.
How do Viruses and Malware Spread?
You might not always know that an attachment in an email or a website you visit could cause problems with your device or network. Hence, it’s essential to be careful. Many things can make computer viruses and malware spread, including:
- Attachments in emails
- Malicious downloads
- Harmful links
- Hacker-infected websites
- Removable media
- Problems with software
- Network spreading
- Use of social engineering
- Harmful advertising
- File-sharing sites
It is possible for harmful software to spread to other computers on the network after it reaches one device.
How to Remove Malware from Network
Malware attacks can damage and destroy networks, putting information at risk. It’s not suggested that you wait for malware threats to come to your door. You must take preventative measures.
It is important to apply all the steps and methods you can to stop, find, and get rid of malware as soon as possible. Here are the most important steps you need to take to keep your network safe and secure:
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Identifying Malware Sources
If you’ve already been hit by malware on your network, first, find out where the infection came from. Do a full investigation to find the entry point and figure out how the malware got in. Examine logs, network traffic, and user reports to figure out where the malware came from and what vulnerabilities could be used against it.
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Close all Suspected Connection
After identifying the malware that is infecting the network, you should start blocking all of the network ports. Once the malware has been found, there are a number of support options that can help you figure out which ports to close.
You can find out what kind of malware you have by sending a sample to the professionals for analysis. Or you can look at the malware hashes on sites like VirusTotal. To be safe, we recommend closing the ports on a clean, network-isolated machine.
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Scan All Devices
Do a full scan of all the computers with a reliable antivirus program that has the most recent database updates. Some workstations might not have the most recent updates. Hence, updates should be sent and set up using removable media. If the antivirus program can not find the malware, a sample should be sent to experts in malware analysis.
To locate the malware’s executable files, one can look at several characteristics, such as
- Network traffic (malware files typically generate a large amount of network traffic and consume a large amount of system resources)
- Windows System folders or the System Registry to identify the malware files’ start-up keys
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Quarantine Infected Devices
After using reliable malware removal tools to scan the computers, any infected files should be found and put in a safe place. After that, you can safely get rid of all the files that were put in quarantine. Check the quarantined files twice to make sure you do not delete anything important.
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Restart Your Devices
After putting the files in a safe place and deleting them, turn the computers back on and scan them again to make sure that all of the infected files are gone.
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Test and Refine Network Security Protocols
The last step in getting rid of malware is to look at your network security protocols and make changes as needed. Perform security audits on a regular basis to find any holes or places where you can improve. Make sure your defenses work by testing your network against different kinds of malware and simulating possible attack scenarios.
Conclusion
Being proactive and using multiple layers will help your network stay safe from malware. You need to monitor network activity, block susceptible ports, and take other vital actions to detect and remove malware from your network.
Additionally, you may conduct security audits of your security infrastructure to strengthen your network. Taking all of these steps will help lower the chance of malware infiltration and protect your network and private data from possible threats.
But if you want to take the security game up a notch, try Crown Computer’s virus and spyware protection. We have helped businesses in San Diego, California, with enterprise endpoint security for more than 20 years. Contact us today to get the best shield against malware.